Formula 1 News: How to Become an F1 Driver in the USA

If you’ve ever dreamed of speeding through a Grand Prix circuit in front of millions, you’re not alone. But how do you become an F1 driver in the US—and is it even possible?

This guide from Sporting Post breaks down every step of the journey, answers the big questions about time, cost, and difficulty, and looks at what it takes to stand out, no matter your background or gender.

How to Become an F1 Driver

Step 1: Start with Karting

Almost every Formula 1 driver begins in karting. It’s where young racers (often as early as age 6) learn the basics of race craft, build their reflexes, and gain competitive experience. In the US, this means joining local or national karting leagues like SKUSA or USPKS.

Step 2: Climb the Junior Racing Ladder

From karting, talented drivers progress into single-seater series, Formula 4, Formula Regional Americas, and eventually FIA-sanctioned categories like Formula 3 and Formula 2. These levels are critical for gaining experience, visibility, and Super License points.

Step 3: Secure an FIA Super License

To race in F1, you need an FIA Super License. To earn one, drivers must:

Be at least 18 years old.
Complete two full seasons in a qualifying single-seater series.
Accumulate 40 Super License points across three years.
Pass a theory test on F1 rules and sporting regulations.

Step 4: Join an F1 Junior Academy

Top F1 teams operate junior driver academies that scout and train future talent. Getting noticed by one, like Red Bull’s or Mercedes’, can fast-track your F1 journey with coaching, mentorship, and financial support.

Step 5: Get Noticed and Land a Seat

If you succeed in the feeder series and make a name for yourself in the racing community, your next opportunity might be a test session or reserve driver role. Perform well, and that could lead to a full-time F1 race seat.

How Hard Is It to Become an F1 Driver?

In short: extremely. Fewer than 1 in 20,000 aspiring racers ever reach F1. It’s not just about talent, it’s a mix of skill, timing, money, and connections. Every year, thousands compete in junior categories, but only 20 seats exist in F1 at any time.

You’ll face elite competition at every level. You’ll sacrifice personal time, education paths, and often move internationally to access better opportunities. The commitment is full-time and then some.

How Much Does It Cost to Become an F1 Driver?

Motorsport is expensive, and F1 is no exception. Here’s a rough cost breakdown:

Karting (ages 6–14): $10,000–$50,000 per year
Formula 4: $100,000–$300,000 per season
Formula 3: $500,000–$1 million per season
Formula 2: $1.5 million–$3 million per season

Total estimated cost to reach F1: $3–$8 million

This is why sponsorships and financial backing are essential. Some drivers come from wealthy families. Others, like Lewis Hamilton, rely on relentless hustle, family sacrifices, and talent to attract sponsors.

How Long Does It Take to Become an F1 Driver?

Most F1 drivers start karting by age 6 and reach F1 in their late teens or early 20s. That’s about 10–15 years of full-time training and racing.

Here’s a typical timeline:

Karting: Ages 6–14
Formula 4 & 3: Ages 14–18
Formula 2: Ages 18–20+
F1 debut: As early as age 18 (if all requirements are met)

Some, like Max Verstappen, fast-track the process. Others take longer and gain experience in different series like IndyCar or endurance racing before switching paths.

How to Become an F1 Driver as a Girl

Women face the same process and the same challenges, but also unique barriers, especially around visibility and sponsorship.

That’s changing with the F1 Academy, an all-female racing series launched to support young women on the path to F1. In 2025, every F1 team will support one female driver in the series, with full team liveries and backing.

Women drivers can:

Compete in mixed-gender karting and junior series.
Join the F1 Academy for added exposure and training.
Earn Super License points through the same qualifying championships.

Drivers like Susie Wolff and Jamie Chadwick have already paved parts of the path. The opportunity is real, but so is the work required.

Chances of Becoming an F1 Driver

Let’s be honest: your odds aren’t great, but that’s the case with any elite sport. F1 has only 20 full-time drivers at any moment. You’re competing globally, and success depends on far more than raw talent.

However, drivers do come from humble beginnings. And esports programs, sim racing, and support series like the F1 Academy are widening the entry points. You’ll need skill, resilience, and likely some luck, but the door isn’t closed.

Final Thoughts: Can You Really Do It?

If you’re asking “how to become an F1 driver” from the US, the answer is: it’s possible, but it’s tough.

Here’s your roadmap:

Start karting early.
Progress through the US and international feeder series.
Build a strong racing record and earn Super License points.
Secure financial support through sponsorship or driver programs.
Join a junior academy.
Stay dedicated, fit, and coachable.

And don’t forget, F1 isn’t the only path. Many drivers enjoy successful careers in IndyCar, WEC, Formula E, or GT racing. The world of motorsport is huge.

FAQs

How much does it cost to become an F1 driver? Expect to spend $3–8 million across your journey, including karting and junior series.

How long does it take to become an F1 driver? Most take 10–15 years from starting karting to making their F1 debut.

How hard is it to become an F1 driver? Very hard. You’re competing against thousands of others for just 20 seats.

Can girls become F1 drivers? Yes. The F1 Academy now supports young women with direct team backing and opportunities to earn Super License points.

What are my chances of becoming an F1 driver? Slim, but not zero. With talent, funding, and commitment, it’s achievable.

Bonus Tip for Ohio-Based Racing Fans

If you’re following motorsports from Ohio, you might also be interested in how the Buckeye State supports the action off the track. Whether you’re placing a bet on your favorite driver or tracking race-day odds, check out Sporting Post’s guide to the best Ohio sportsbooks for safe, legal, and top-rated options.